D'Backs' Hall Seen As Boon For Franchise, Perfect Successor To Selig

Hall says good crowds illustrate the team's deep roots in the Phoenix market

D'Backs President & CEO DERRICK HALL is "one of the more likable, respected executives in sports," according to a profile piece by Dan Bickley of the ARIZONA REPUBLIC. Hall is a "cancer survivor, which turned him into a reluctant vegetarian," and his "good name continues to gain steam" as the successor to MLB CommissionerBUD SELIG. Hall said, "Just to be mentioned is unbelievable." Bickley wrote it "sounds improbable, but that’s the story of Hall’s entire career," and it "makes perfect sense." Hall is "progressive, smart, grounded, returns every e-mail and solves most every problem with a smile." Since taking over as D'Backs President in '06, he has "implemented a dramatic change" within the franchise, "creating a homespun organization fueled by goodwill, relentless optimism and cornball catchphrases (FAWTSY: Find A Way to Say Yes!)." Every franchise in Phoenix is "known for its charitable endeavors," but the D'Backs "always seem to do the most, and always seem to do the best." Hall is "beginning to hear a familiar refrain from long-time Valley fans: The Diamondbacks feel like the Suns once did" under former Owner JERRY COLANGELO. Hall said that the team will "exceed attendance projections this season," and that the ability to draw 2 million fans "during losing seasons and nasty recessions is proof that the Diamondbacks have grown some deep roots" (ARIZONA REPUBLIC, 7/14).

HAVE NO FEHR: NHLPA Exec Dir DONALD FEHR does not have any current plans to leave the hockey union and rejoin the MLBPA, a source familiar with the situation said on Friday. A Yahoo Sports report stated MLBPA officials have discussed the possibility of Fehr, who was MLBPA Exec Dir for more than 25 years, returning to the baseball union. Fehr's successor, MLBPA Exec Dir MICHAEL WEINER, is currently battling brain cancer. "No doubt, if contingency plans are being considered by the MLBPA, it isn’t a surprise that Don’s name would come up as part of the conversation," the source said. "Don of course has strong ties to the MLBPA having spent many, many years at the MLBPA. And, if he was asked to consult and/or advise the players during a difficult period, he would certainly do so. But he is not looking to leave his ED position with the NHLPA." An MLBPA spokesperson declined comment (Liz Mullen, Staff Writer).